System, method, and program for distributing video

Abstract

Supports appropriate evaluation of video distributors. [Solution] A video distribution server 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention provides a video distribution service for distributing and viewing videos to users via user terminals 30. The server 10 determines, for each of a plurality of distributors, viewers who satisfy predetermined conditions related to the viewing behavior of videos provided by each distributor, and executes predetermined processing to evaluate each distributor based at least on the number of such viewers, thereby enabling appropriate evaluation of distributors based on the number of viewers with certain viewing behavior.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system, a method, and a program for distributing moving images. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, various services have been provided for distributing videos provided by distributors to multiple viewers (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). Furthermore, in these services, distributors are evaluated, such as by ranking, for the purpose of promoting video distribution. Such evaluations are typically based on the distributor's distribution behavior, such as the number of days of distribution and the duration of distribution. Furthermore, such evaluations may also be based on the viewers' viewing behavior, such as the number of comments / items entered by the viewers. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-022219 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in conventional video distribution services, for example, a distributor with a small number of devoted fans may receive a high rating only due to the extremely active viewing behavior of these fans (e.g., purchasing a large number of items). As a result, if a distributor focuses on having a small number of devoted fans, the increase in the number of viewers for the entire service is suppressed, hindering the vitality of the service.

[0005] One of the objects of the embodiments of the present invention is to support appropriate evaluation of video distributors. Other objects of the embodiments of the present invention will become apparent by referring to the entire specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a system for distributing videos, comprising one or more computer processors, wherein the one or more computer processors, in response to execution of readable instructions, perform the following processes: distributing videos provided by each of a plurality of distributors to a plurality of viewers; determining, for each of the plurality of distributors, viewers who satisfy specified conditions regarding the viewing behavior of the videos provided by each of the plurality of distributors; and performing specified processing to evaluate each of the plurality of distributors based at least on the number of viewers who satisfy the specified conditions for each of the plurality of distributors.

[0007] A method according to one embodiment of the present invention is a method for distributing videos, executed by one or more computers, and includes the steps of: distributing videos provided by each of a plurality of distributors to a plurality of viewers; determining, for each of the plurality of distributors, viewers who satisfy predetermined conditions regarding the viewing behavior of the videos provided by each of the plurality of distributors; and performing predetermined processing to evaluate each of the plurality of distributors based at least on the number of viewers who satisfy the predetermined conditions for each of the plurality of distributors.

[0008] A program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for distributing videos, which, when executed on one or more computers, causes the one or more computers to execute the following processes: distributing videos provided by each of multiple distributors to multiple viewers; determining, for each of the multiple distributors, viewers who satisfy specified conditions regarding the viewing behavior of videos provided by each of the multiple distributors; and executing specified processes to evaluate each of the multiple distributors based at least on the number of viewers who satisfy the specified conditions for each of the multiple distributors. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] Various embodiments of the present invention support proper evaluation of video distributors. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network including a video distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functions of the video distribution server 10. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a user information table 411. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining ranks. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a distribution management table 412. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of information managed in a condition satisfaction status management table 413. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a top screen 60. [Figure 8] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a distribution screen 70. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a viewing screen 80. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an item selection screen 100. [Figure 11] 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when updating a rank. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an update rule for a rank meter value. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between update contents of rank and required rank meter value. [Figure 14] 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a process executed by the server 10 when awarding diamonds. [Figure 15] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a distribution screen 70 during an event. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the correspondence between the number and level of supporters and coefficients for calculating event points. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a support team details screen 200. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a viewing screen 80 during an event. [Figure 19] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a support team details screen 200A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a network including a video distribution server 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, the video distribution server 10 is communicatively connected to a user terminal 30 via a communication network 20 such as the Internet. While only one user terminal 30 is illustrated in FIG. 1, the server 10 is communicatively connected to multiple user terminals 30. The video distribution server 10 provides users with a video distribution service for distributing and viewing videos via the user terminal 30. In this embodiment, a user operating the user terminal 30 can distribute videos as a distributor and can also view videos provided by other users as a viewer. The video distribution server 10 is an example of a device that implements part or all of the system of the present invention.

[0013] The video distribution server 10 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. 1, includes a computer processor 11, a main memory 12, an input / output I / F 13, a communication I / F 14, and a storage (memory device) 15, and each of these components is electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

[0014] The computer processor 11 is configured as a CPU, a GPU, or the like, and loads various programs stored in a storage 15 or the like into a main memory 12 and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 12 is configured, for example, by a DRAM or the like.

[0015] The input / output I / F 13 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with a user, etc. The input / output I / F 13 includes, for example, information input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), an audio input device such as a microphone, and an image input device such as a camera. The input / output I / F 13 also includes an image output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0016] The communication I / F 14 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, or a combination thereof, and is configured to be able to realize wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

[0017] The storage 15 is configured by, for example, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, etc. The storage 15 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, etc.

[0018] In this embodiment, the video distribution server 10 may be configured using a plurality of computers each having the above-described hardware configuration. For example, the video distribution server 10 may be configured by one or a plurality of server devices.

[0019] The video distribution server 10 configured in this manner can be configured to function as a web server and an application server, in which case it executes various processes in response to requests from a web browser and other applications (e.g., applications for video distribution services) installed on the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data (e.g., HTML data) and control data according to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. The user terminal 30 can display a web page or other screen based on the received data.

[0020] The user terminal 30 is configured as a general computer, and as shown in FIG. 1, includes a computer processor 31, a main memory 32, an input / output I / F 33, a communication I / F 34, and a storage (storage device) 35, with each of these components being electrically connected via a bus or the like (not shown).

[0021] The computer processor 31 is configured as a CPU, a GPU, or the like, and loads various programs stored in a storage 35 or the like into the main memory 32 and executes various instructions included in the programs. The main memory 32 is configured, for example, by a DRAM or the like.

[0022] The input / output I / F 33 includes various input / output devices for exchanging information with a user, etc. The input / output I / F 33 includes, for example, information input devices such as a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse, a touch panel, etc.), audio input devices such as a microphone, and image input devices such as a camera. The input / output I / F 33 also includes an image output device such as a display, and an audio output device such as a speaker.

[0023] The communication I / F 34 is implemented as hardware such as a network adapter, various communication software, or a combination thereof, and is configured to be able to realize wired or wireless communication via the communication network 20 or the like.

[0024] The storage 35 is configured by, for example, a magnetic disk or a flash memory, etc. The storage 35 stores various programs including an operating system, various data, etc. The programs stored in the storage 35 can be downloaded from an application market or the like and installed.

[0025] In this embodiment, the user terminal 30 may be configured as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, a wearable device, or the like.

[0026] A user operating a user terminal 30 configured in this manner can use the video distribution service provided by the video distribution server 10 by communicating with the video distribution server 10 via a web browser or other application installed on storage 35, etc.

[0027] Next, the functions of the video distribution server 10 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the functions of the video distribution server 10. As illustrated, the server 10 includes an information storage management unit 41 that stores and manages various information, a basic function control unit 43 that controls basic functions of the video distribution service, a video distribution control unit 45 that controls video distribution, and a user evaluation unit 47 that executes processing related to user evaluations. These functions are realized by the cooperative operation of hardware such as the computer processor 11 and main memory 12, as well as various programs and data stored in the storage 15, for example, by the computer processor 11 executing instructions included in a program loaded into the main memory 12. Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the server 10 illustrated in FIG. 2 may be realized by the cooperation of the server 10 and the user terminal 30, or may be realized by the user terminal 30.

[0028] The information storage management unit 41 of the video distribution server 10 stores and manages various information in the storage 15 etc. For example, as shown in Fig. 2, the information storage management unit 41 is configured to have a user information table 411 that manages information about users of the video distribution service, a distribution management table 412 that manages information about the distribution of individual videos, and a condition satisfaction status management table 413 that manages the satisfaction status of viewers of predetermined conditions related to viewing behavior.

[0029] The basic function control unit 43 of the video distribution server 10 executes various processes related to the control of the basic functions of the video distribution service. For example, the basic function control unit 43 transmits screen data or control data of various screens related to the basic functions to the user terminal 30, executes various processes in response to operation input by the user via the screen displayed on the user terminal 30, and transmits screen data or control data according to the results of the processes to the user terminal 30. The basic functions controlled by the basic function control unit 43 include, for example, login processing (user authentication), billing control, and user management (e.g., updating the user information table 411), etc.

[0030] The video distribution control unit 45 of the video distribution server 10 executes various processes related to the control of video distribution. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to distribute videos provided by each of multiple distributors to multiple viewers. For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to receive live video transmitted from a user terminal 30 of the distributor (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "distributor terminal 30") and transmit the live video to each user terminal 30 of multiple viewers (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a "viewer terminal 30"). The live video is composed of, for example, an image input via a camera of the distributor terminal 30 and audio input via a microphone. Such live video may be distributed using a streaming method using a protocol such as HTTP Live Streaming (HLS). For example, the video distribution control unit 45 is configured to receive videos provided by distributors from the distributor terminal 30 in advance, store them in storage 15, etc., and transmit the videos to the viewer terminal 30 in response to a request from the viewer via the viewer terminal 30.

[0031] The user evaluation unit 47 of the video distribution server 10 performs various processes related to user evaluations. In this embodiment, the user evaluation unit 47 is configured to determine, for each broadcaster, viewers who satisfy predetermined conditions related to the viewing behavior of videos provided by each broadcaster, and to perform predetermined processes to evaluate each broadcaster based at least on the number of viewers. Information regarding the satisfaction status of the predetermined conditions for each viewer is managed, for example, in a condition satisfaction status management table 413. Viewers whose viewing behavior satisfies the predetermined conditions can be defined, for example, as "fans" of the corresponding broadcaster.

[0032] In this manner, the video distribution server 10 in this embodiment determines, for each of a plurality of distributors, the viewers (e.g., fans) who satisfy predetermined conditions regarding the viewing behavior of the videos provided by each distributor, and executes a predetermined process to evaluate each distributor based at least on the number of such viewers, thereby enabling appropriate evaluation of distributors based on the number of viewers with certain viewing behavior. In this manner, the server 10 supports appropriate evaluation of video distributors.

[0033] In this embodiment, the predetermined processing may include various processes for evaluating broadcasters. For example, the predetermined processing may include a process for calculating predetermined points for ranking broadcasters. In this case, the user evaluation unit 47 is configured to calculate the predetermined points based on the number of viewers who satisfy predetermined conditions. For example, the predetermined points are configured to increase (the rating increases) as the number of viewers increases. This configuration supports appropriate ranking of broadcasters based on the number of viewers who engage in certain viewing behavior.

[0034] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the ranking of streamers may be configured as a ranking for a specific event having a predetermined period of time. Typically, in such an event, a predetermined reward (such as an electronic or virtual reward available in a video streaming service or a real reward) is awarded to streamers ranked at the top of the ranking. For example, the user evaluation unit 47 may be configured to determine viewers who satisfy a predetermined condition during a predetermined period corresponding to the specific event (e.g., determine whether the predetermined condition is satisfied based on actual viewing behavior during the predetermined period), calculate predetermined points based on the number of viewers, and set the ranking of streamers based on the predetermined points. This configuration supports appropriate ranking of streamers during a limited-time event.

[0035] In this embodiment, the predetermined condition may include various conditions related to the viewer's viewing behavior of the video. For example, the predetermined condition may include a condition that the values ​​of one or more parameters related to the viewing behavior are within a predetermined range (e.g., greater than or equal to a predetermined value).

[0036] For example, the predetermined condition includes a condition related to the amount of viewing of the video (e.g., viewing time, number of views, number of days viewed, etc.), such as a condition that the value of a parameter related to the amount of viewing of the video is within a predetermined range (e.g., viewing time is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, etc.). Such a configuration enables appropriate evaluation of distributors based on the number of viewers with a certain amount of viewing of the video.

[0037] Furthermore, for example, the predetermined conditions include a condition regarding the amount (e.g., number of inputs) of input information (e.g., comments, items, etc.) input while watching a video, such as a condition that the value of a parameter regarding the input amount of the input information is within a predetermined range (e.g., the number of comments is equal to or greater than a predetermined value). For example, a condition regarding the input amount of a paid item includes a condition regarding the amount of compensation for the input item (e.g., number of coins, etc.). This configuration enables appropriate evaluation of a broadcaster based on the number of viewers who input a certain amount of input information.

[0038] In this embodiment, the distribution screen / viewing screen displayed on the distributor terminal 30 / viewer terminal 30 during distribution of a video can be configured to display information (e.g., the number / list of such viewers) about viewers who satisfy predetermined conditions of the corresponding distributor (the distributor providing the video being distributed). This configuration enables the distributor / viewer to know information about viewers who satisfy the predetermined conditions during distribution of a video, which can encourage viewers to engage in viewing behavior aimed at satisfying the predetermined conditions.

[0039] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the distribution screen / viewing screen may be configured to display a predetermined message in response to a viewer's satisfaction of a predetermined condition. The message may include information that identifies the viewer who has satisfied the predetermined condition (e.g., the viewer's account name, etc.). This configuration allows the distributor / viewer to know whether a viewer has satisfied the predetermined condition during video distribution, which may encourage viewers to engage in viewing behavior aimed at satisfying the predetermined condition.

[0040] The user evaluation unit 47 may also be configured to present to the viewer information regarding the viewer's degree of satisfaction of a predetermined condition. For example, the user evaluation unit 47 may be configured to transmit screen data of a screen including the viewer's degree of satisfaction of the predetermined condition to the viewer terminal 30 in response to a request from the viewer via the viewer terminal 30. The degree of satisfaction of the predetermined condition includes information regarding the difference between the value of a parameter related to viewing behavior required to satisfy the condition and the actual value of the parameter. For example, the viewer's degree of satisfaction of the predetermined condition may be presented to the viewer via a viewing screen displayed on the viewer terminal 30 during video distribution. This configuration allows the viewer to know the degree of satisfaction of the predetermined condition, which may encourage the viewer to engage in viewing behavior aimed at satisfying the predetermined condition.

[0041] Next, a specific example of the video distribution server 10 of this embodiment having such functions will be described. In this example, the video distribution service is configured as a live video distribution service in which live videos provided by a distributor are distributed to viewers in real time.

[0042] 3 illustrates information managed in user information table 411 in this example. User information table 411 manages information about users of the live video streaming service, and as shown in the figure, associates the information with a "user account" that identifies an individual user, such as "basic information" including account name, age, gender, etc., "streaming history information" that is information about the streaming history of live videos, "viewing history information" that is information about the viewing history of live videos streamed by other users, "following user information" that is information about other users followed by the user, "follower information" that is information about other users (followers) who follow the user, "family information" that is information about families to which the user belongs as a family member, a "rank" that indicates the user's rank as a streamer, a "rank meter value" that is a parameter value for determining whether the user's rank has been increased or decreased, a "number of owned coins" that indicates the number of virtual coins held in the live video streaming service, a "number of owned diamonds" that is the number of virtual diamonds held, and "event points" (predetermined points) that are points earned by the user as a streamer in a limited-time event.

[0043] A family is a community (group) for supporting a specific broadcaster, and a user can join (become a family member) after receiving approval from the family's administrator, etc. Family information includes information that can identify each of the one or more families to which the user belongs.

[0044] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the "rank" of a broadcaster in this example. As shown in the figure, in this example, there are six rank bands: "S," "A," "B," "C," "D," and "E." Each of the five rank bands, "S," "A," "B," "C," and "D," is composed of three ranks (for example, "S+," "S," and "S-"; a rank with a "+" added to the alphabet indicating the rank band, a rank with only the alphabet, and a rank with a "-" added to the alphabet). Furthermore, the "E" rank band is composed of a single rank, "E." In other words, in this example, there are 16 ranks (3 x 5 + 1 = 16).

[0045] Furthermore, the rank range is from the "S" side to the "E" side, with the highest being the "S" side, to the "E" side, with the lowest being the "E" side. Furthermore, within the same rank range, the "+" side is the highest being the "-" side, with the lowest being the "-" side. In this example, the user's rank is set to "D-" as the initial value.

[0046] 5 illustrates information managed in distribution management table 412 in this example. Distribution management table 412 manages information related to distribution of individual live video images, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as a "distributor user account" that identifies the distributor of this distribution, "distribution date and time," "distribution duration" that indicates the duration of the distribution, "number of viewers (current value and maximum value)," "number of comments" that is the number of comments entered by viewers, "number of likes" that is the number of "likes" entered by viewers, "item points" that increase according to the entry of items by viewers, and "distribution points" that are points awarded for this distribution, in association with a "distribution ID" that identifies an individual distribution (live video).

[0047] 6 illustrates information managed in the condition satisfaction status management table 413. The condition satisfaction status management table 413 manages information related to the satisfaction status of viewers of predetermined conditions related to viewing behavior, and as shown in the figure, manages information such as "number of coins consumed for item," which is the number of coins consumed in accordance with the input of an item, "number of comment inputs," "viewing time," "number of viewing days," and "date and time when the viewer satisfied the predetermined condition," in association with a combination of an "event ID" that identifies an individual event, a "distributor user account" that identifies an individual broadcaster, and a "viewer user account" that identifies an individual viewer.

[0048] In this example, as will be described in more detail later, viewers who meet certain conditions related to their viewing behavior of live videos provided by a broadcaster during a limited-time event are managed as the broadcaster's supporters. The condition satisfaction status management table 413 manages the values ​​of parameters related to the corresponding viewer's viewing behavior (number of item coins consumed, number of comments entered, viewing time, number of viewing days) for the corresponding broadcaster's live videos during the corresponding event period.

[0049] 7 illustrates an example of a top screen 60 of the live video streaming service displayed on the user terminal 30. The screen 60 is the starting point for users who use the live video streaming service, and as shown in the figure, has a selection area 62 displaying "Follow," "Popular," and "All," a list display area 64 located below the selection area 62, and a circular streaming start button 66 located in the upper right corner of the screen.

[0050] The selection area 62 is an area for selecting the content to be displayed in the list display area 64. Specifically, when "Follow" is selected in the selection area 62, live videos currently being distributed by other users the user is following are displayed in the list display area 64. Similarly, when "Popular" is selected in the selection area 62, live videos extracted according to predetermined extraction conditions for extracting popular videos (for example, live videos with a viewer count (current value) equal to or greater than a threshold) are displayed in the list display area 64. Furthermore, when "All" is selected in the selection area 62, all live videos currently being distributed are displayed in the list display area 64.

[0051] 7, the list display area 64 has two columns of individual display areas 641, each displaying information about an individual live video. The individual display areas 641 are configured to display a still image preset by the broadcaster of the live video, the broadcaster's account name, the number of viewers (current value), and the like, and to allow the user to start viewing the corresponding live video in response to a selection by the user. The list display area 64 is configured so that the displayed individual display areas 641 can be switched by a flick operation / slide operation in an up or down direction, etc.

[0052] The distribution start button 66 is an object for the user to start distributing live video as a distributor. When the distribution start button 66 is selected by the user, distribution of the live video starts, and specifically, transmission of a video composed of images input via the camera of the user terminal 30 and audio input via the microphone of the user terminal 30 to the server 10 starts. In addition, in response to the start of distribution of the live video, a new record is created in the distribution management table 412.

[0053] 8 illustrates a distribution screen 70 that is displayed on the distributor terminal 30 in response to selection of the distribution start button 66 (i.e., the start of distribution of a live video). As shown in the figure, the screen 70 has a video display area 71 that covers the entire screen, a basic information display area 72 located in the upper left corner of the screen, a comment display area 73 located in the lower left corner of the screen, and a circular distribution stop button 76 located in the center of the bottom edge of the screen.

[0054] The video display area 71 displays the live video being distributed, that is, the image input via the camera of the distributor terminal 30. Since the distributor usually takes a picture of himself / herself via the internal camera of the distributor terminal 30, the live video being distributed includes the distributor himself / herself.

[0055] The basic information display area 72 displays basic information about this broadcast, specifically broadcaster information (profile image, etc.), the number of viewers of this broadcast (current value), and the number of "likes" entered by viewers for this broadcast.

[0056] The comment display area 73 displays user comments input by the viewer or system comments automatically input by the server 10 (for example, a system comment notifying the viewer that they have started viewing (entered the broadcast room), etc.), and specifically, in this area 73, a plurality of comment objects 731, each corresponding to an individual comment, are arranged vertically. The comment display area 73 is configured so that when a new comment is input, a corresponding comment object 731 is added to the bottom, and existing comment objects 731 move sequentially upward. The comment display area 73 is configured so that the comment objects 731 displayed can be switched by a flick operation / slide operation in the vertical direction, etc.

[0057] The distribution stop button 76 is an object that allows the distributor to stop distribution of the live video. When the distributor selects the distribution stop button 76, distribution of the live video (transmission of the live video from the distributor terminal 30 to the server 10) is stopped.

[0058] 9 illustrates a viewing screen 80 displayed on the viewer terminal 30. For example, when a viewer selects a live video via the list display area 64 of the top screen 60, a viewing screen 80 for viewing the selected live video is displayed on the viewer terminal 30. As shown in the figure, the screen 80 has a video display area 81, a basic information display area 82, and a comment display area 83, similar to the distribution screen 70 described above. In addition, the viewing screen 80 has, at the bottom of the screen, a comment input area 86, a "Like" button 87 with a heart mark displayed, and an item input button 88 with a gift design displayed.

[0059] The comment input area 86 is an area where viewers can input comments. A transmission object 861 is located at the right end of the area 86, and when the object 861 is selected, the character string input in the comment input area 86 is transmitted as a user comment. When a user comment is transmitted, a comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the comment is added to the comment display area 73, 83 on the distribution screen 70 of the distributor terminal 30 and the viewing screen 80 of each viewer terminal 30, respectively. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the user comment displays the comment itself (character string) along with the account name of the viewer who input the comment. When a comment is input, the number of comments in the distribution management table 412 is updated (incremented by 1).

[0060] The like button 87 is an object that allows a viewer to input a "like" to a broadcaster. When the viewer selects the button 87, the "like" is input and a system comment regarding the "like" is input, and the corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding the "like" displays text indicating that the "like" has been made, along with the account name of the viewer who input the "like." Furthermore, when a "like" is input, a predetermined visual effect (for example, an animation effect in which a heart-shaped object is displayed flowing from the bottom to the top of the screen) is added to the video display area 71, 81. Furthermore, when a "like" is input, the "number of likes" in the broadcast management table 412 is updated (increased by 1).

[0061] The item input button 88 is an object that allows the viewer to input an item. When the button 88 is selected by the viewer, an item selection screen 100, as shown in FIG. 10, is displayed superimposed on the viewing screen 80. As shown in the figure, the screen 100 displays a list of multiple individual display areas 102, each of which displays information about an item. The individual display areas 102 display an image corresponding to the item and the number of coins required to input the item.

[0062] In this example, a plurality of items that can be input by a viewer are determined in advance, and a number of coins is set in advance as the price (value, compensation) of each item. The item selection screen 100 displays a list of the plurality of items that can be input. When a viewer selects one of the items via the item selection screen 100, the selected item is input.

[0063] When an item is input, a system comment regarding the item input is entered, and a corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding the item input displays the name of the input item together with the account name of the viewer who input the item. Furthermore, when an item is input, a visual effect corresponding to the input item is added to the video display area 71, 81. Furthermore, when an item is input, item points according to the number of coins of the input item (for example, the more coins, the more points) are awarded to this broadcast, and are added to the item points of the corresponding broadcast in the broadcast management table 412. Furthermore, when an item is input, the number of coins of the input item is subtracted from the number of coins owned by the corresponding user (the viewer who input the item) in the user information table 411.

[0064] When the broadcaster selects the stop broadcast button 76 on the broadcast screen 70, the broadcast of the live video ends. When the broadcast of the live video ends, the server 10 sets broadcast points for that broadcast. In this example, the broadcast points are calculated based on the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the item points. The broadcast points are configured to increase as the number of viewers (maximum value), the number of likes, the number of comments, and the item points increase. The calculated broadcast points are registered in the broadcast management table 412.

[0065] In this example, the rank of the day is determined (updated) based on the distribution points the user acquired on the previous day. Fig. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when updating the rank of each user. This process is executed late at night every day (for example, at 3:00 AM every day).

[0066] First, the server 10 updates the rank meter value of each user as shown in FIG. 11 (step S200). FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the rules for updating the rank meter value. As shown in the figure, in this example, the rank meter value fluctuates based on the ranking of the distribution points acquired by the user on the previous day within the rank band to which the user belongs. The distribution points acquired by a specific user on the previous day are calculated by referring to the distributor user account, distribution date and time, and distribution points in the distribution management table 412. Note that if a user makes multiple distributions in one day, the distribution points acquired for each of the multiple distributions are added together.

[0067] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, the update rule for the rank meter value is as follows: first, if the ranking of distribution points within a rank band is in the top 10%, the change in the rank meter value is "+2" (an increase of 2 points). Similarly, if the ranking is in the top 11-30% (the remaining 20% ​​after excluding the top 10% from the top 30%), the change is "+1", if the ranking is in the middle 30% (the top 31-60%), the change is "±0" (no increase or decrease), and if the ranking is in the bottom 40%, the change is "-1" (a decrease of 1 point). Note that if no distribution was performed on the previous day, the change in the rank meter value will be "-1" regardless of the ranking within the rank band.

[0068] In step S200, the rank meter value of each user is updated according to the update rule exemplified in Fig. 12. Note that, for a user whose rank meter value is negative and whose current change in rank meter value is an increase (specifically, +2 or +1), the rank meter value may be cleared to 0 and then incremented. That is, for example, if a user whose current rank meter value is "-1" has a current change of "+2", the rank meter value is cleared to 0 and then incremented by 2, so that the rank meter value after the change becomes "+2" (instead of "+1"). In this way, even for users whose rank meter value is negative (for example, users who infrequently stream), the rank meter value can be increased all at once, thereby promoting the streaming of live video.

[0069] Returning to the flow diagram of FIG. 11, once the rank meter value of each user has been updated, the server 10 then updates the rank based on the updated rank meter value (step S210). FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between the updated rank content and the required rank meter value. As shown in the figure, first, when a user ranks up across rank bands (in other words, when ranking up from the highest rank in each rank band), the rank meter value required is +4. That is, when a user belonging to the highest rank (e.g., A+) in each rank band has a rank meter value of +4, the user is ranked up to the lowest rank (e.g., S-) in the immediately upper rank band. Furthermore, when a user ranks up within the same rank band (in other words, when ranking up from the middle or lowest rank in each rank band), the rank meter value required is +2. That is, when a user belonging to the middle or lowest rank (e.g., B or B-) in each rank band has a rank meter value of +2, the user is ranked up to the immediately upper rank (e.g., B+ or B) in the same rank band.

[0070] Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the rank meter value required for a rank down within the same rank band (in other words, for a rank down from the highest or middle rank within each rank band) is -2. That is, when a user belonging to the highest or middle rank within each rank band (e.g., B+ or B) has a rank meter value of -2, the user will be ranked down to the next lower rank within the same rank band (e.g., B or B-). Furthermore, the rank meter value required for a rank down across rank bands is -6. That is, when a user belonging to the lowest rank within each rank band (e.g., A-) has a rank meter value of -6, the user will be ranked down to the highest rank within the next lower rank band (e.g., B+). Thus, in this example, the absolute value of the rank meter value required for a rank up / down across rank bands is larger than that required for a rank up / down within the same rank band. As a result, a sudden rank up / down in a short period of time is suppressed.

[0071] Returning to the flow diagram of Fig. 11, in step S210, the rank is updated based on the rank meter value in accordance with the correspondence relationship illustrated in Fig. 13. Note that the rank meter value of the user whose rank has been updated (the user whose rank has been upgraded / downgraded) is cleared to 0.

[0072] In this example, diamonds are awarded as a reward to the user as a distributor based on the distribution time of the previous day and the rank (rank on the previous day). Figure 14 is a flow diagram illustrating the process executed by the server 10 when awarding diamonds to each distributor. This process is executed late at night every day, for example, at a time (for example, midnight every day) before the process executed when updating the rank of each user illustrated in Figure 11.

[0073] As shown in the figure, the server 10 first calculates the distribution time of each user on the previous day (step S300). Specifically, the distribution time of a specific user on the previous day is identified by referring to the distributor user account, distribution date and time, and distribution time in the distribution management table 412. If a user makes multiple distributions in one day, the distribution times of each of the multiple distributions are added together.

[0074] Next, the server 10 grants each user a number of diamonds based on the calculated distribution time and the standard number of diamonds (step S310). Specifically, each user is granted a number of diamonds calculated by multiplying the calculated distribution time by the standard number of diamonds. The standard number of diamonds is preset for each rank so that the higher the rank, the greater the number, and the standard number of diamonds corresponding to each user's rank on the previous day is applied. When diamonds are granted to a user, the number of diamonds held in the user information table 411 is updated. In this example, diamonds can be exchanged for coins or real currency.

[0075] Here, we will explain the event in this example. In this example, the live video streaming service sometimes holds time-limited events that last for a predetermined period (for example, two weeks), and broadcasters are ranked at these events. The rankings, which will be described in detail later, are set based on the event points earned by the broadcaster during the event period, and the event points are obtained by multiplying the broadcast points earned by the broadcaster during the event period by a coefficient corresponding to the number of supporters for the broadcaster.

[0076] In this example, viewers who meet all of the following four conditions regarding live video viewing behavior during the event period can join the support team of the corresponding broadcaster. (1) The number of coins consumed when entering an item is 150 or more. (2) The number of comments entered is 80 or more. (3) Viewing time is 5 hours or more (4) Viewing days are 3 or more days These conditions (conditions for joining the cheering squad) are presented to the user, for example, via a screen that explains the details of the event and is displayed on the user terminal 30. During the event, the values ​​of these four parameters for each viewer are managed in the condition satisfaction status management table 413 and updated in real time (during the distribution of the live video). For example, the "number of consumed item coins" is updated in response to the input of an item, the "number of comment inputs" is updated in response to the input of a comment, the "viewing time" is updated in response to the continuation of viewing, and the "number of viewing days" is updated in response to the start of viewing for the first time that day.

[0077] In this example, when a viewer satisfies all four of the above-mentioned conditions, the viewer joins the cheering squad for the corresponding broadcaster. When the viewer joins the cheering squad, a system comment regarding joining the cheering squad is entered, and a corresponding comment object 731, 831 is added to the comment display area 73, 83. The comment object 731, 831 corresponding to the system comment regarding joining the cheering squad displays text indicating joining the cheering squad along with the account name of the viewer who joined the cheering squad. In addition, in response to joining the cheering squad, a predetermined visual effect is added to the video display area 71, 81. In addition, in response to joining the cheering squad, the date and time when the corresponding viewer's conditions were satisfied is set in the condition satisfaction status management table 413.

[0078] Additionally, in this example, information regarding the current status of the streamer's cheering squad is displayed on the streaming screen 70 and the viewing screen 80. FIG. 15 illustrates the streaming screen 70 during an event. As shown in the figure, a cheering squad information display object 721 is placed in the upper right corner of the streaming screen 70 during the event, displaying the current status of the corresponding streamer's cheering squad. The object 721 displays the current number of cheering squad members and their level.

[0079] In this example, the value of the cheering squad's level and the coefficient used when calculating event points (the multiplier for distribution points when calculating event points) changes depending on the number of cheering squad members. FIG. 16 illustrates the correspondence between the number of cheering squad members, the cheering squad's level, and the coefficient used for calculating event points. As shown in the figure, in this example, when the number of cheering squad members is 30 or less, the level is 1 and the coefficient (multiplier) is 1.0 (no change). When the number of cheering squad members is 31 or more and 50 or less, the level is 2 and the coefficient (multiplier) is 1.5. When the number of cheering squad members is 51 or more and 100 or less, the level is 3 and the coefficient (multiplier) is 2.0. When the number of cheering squad members is 101 or more, the level is 4 and the coefficient (multiplier) is 3.0.

[0080] The number of supporters displayed in the support team information display object 721 is determined by referring to the condition fulfillment status management table 413, and the level of the supporters is determined according to the number of supporters and the correspondence relationship illustrated in Figure 16.

[0081] When the cheering squad information display object 721 is selected, a cheering squad details screen 200, as shown in FIG. 17, is displayed superimposed on the distribution screen 70. As shown in the figure, the screen 200 displays the current number of people in the cheering squad, their level, and a coefficient (multiplier), and also has a list display area 202 that displays a list of viewers who have joined the cheering squad. In the area 202, profile images of viewers who have joined the cheering squad are arranged side by side in the left-right direction, and the displayed viewers can be switched by performing a flick operation / slide operation in the left-right direction, etc. In this example, the multiple viewers in the list display area 202 are arranged in ascending order of the condition fulfillment date and time (date and time of joining the cheering squad), with the left end at the top.

[0082] 18 shows an example of the viewing screen 80 during the event period. As shown in the figure, during the event period, the viewing screen 80 also has a cheering squad information display object 821 placed in the upper right corner of the screen, similar to the distribution screen 70.

[0083] 19 illustrates a cheering squad detail screen 200A that is displayed superimposed on the viewing screen 80 in response to selection of a cheering squad information display object 821 on the viewing screen 80. Similar to the cheering squad detail screen 200, the screen 200A displays the number of members of the cheering squad, their level, and a coefficient (multiplier), and also includes a list display area 202 that displays a list of viewers who have joined the cheering squad. Furthermore, the cheering squad detail screen 200A further includes a status display area 204A that displays the status of the viewer (the user of the viewer terminal 30 on which the viewing screen 80 is being displayed) in terms of fulfillment of the conditions for joining the cheering squad. As shown in the figure, the area 204A displays, in fractional form, the values ​​required to fulfill the conditions for joining and the current actual values ​​for each of the parameters of item contribution (number of item coins consumed), number of comments (number of comments entered), viewing time, and number of viewing days. 19, the satisfaction status regarding the number of comments is displayed as "25 / 80 comments," which indicates that the number of comments required to satisfy the conditions for joining the support team is "80," and the current actual number of comments is "25." Note that in the status display area 204A, a display such as "clear" is added to the position of the parameter that has satisfied the conditions for joining.

[0084] During an event, when the distribution of a live video ends, the server 10 not only sets distribution points for that distribution, but also updates the event points (managed in the user information table 411) of the corresponding broadcaster at that time. The event points are calculated by multiplying the distribution points earned by the broadcaster during the event by a coefficient (multiplier) corresponding to the number of supporters. The distribution points during the event are calculated by adding up the distribution points of each broadcast during that period, which are managed in the distribution management table 412. In addition, the number of supporters for the corresponding broadcaster is calculated by referring to the condition satisfaction status management table 413.

[0085] During the event, the broadcasters' rankings (progress) based on their event points at that time are displayed on a screen explaining the content of the event, etc. Then, when the event period ends, the broadcasters' rankings are determined based on the final broadcast points and event points based on the number of supporters, and, for example, predetermined rewards are awarded to the top-ranked broadcasters.

[0086] In the example described above, the status display area 204A of the cheering squad details screen 200A is configured to display the viewer's own fulfillment status of the conditions for joining the cheering squad, but in another example of this embodiment, the broadcaster / viewer may be configured to view the fulfillment status of other viewers' conditions for joining the cheering squad via the broadcasting screen 70 / viewing screen 80. Also, for example, a family member of a specific broadcaster may be able to view the fulfillment status of other family members of the same broadcaster. For example, a screen containing information about the family may display a list of the fulfillment status of the conditions for joining the cheering squad for the corresponding broadcaster for each of multiple family members who have joined the family.

[0087] In the example described above, the number of cheering squad members is used to calculate event points for a time-limited event, but in another example of this embodiment, the number of cheering squad members may be used in various evaluations of the broadcaster other than for such events. For example, the broadcast points in the example described above may be calculated based on the number of cheering squad members.

[0088] The video distribution server 10 of the present embodiment described above determines, for each of multiple distributors, viewers who satisfy predetermined conditions related to the viewing behavior of videos provided by each distributor (e.g., conditions related to the number of item coins consumed, the number of comments entered, the viewing time, and the number of viewing days, etc.), and performs predetermined processing (e.g., processing to calculate event points) to evaluate each distributor based at least on the number of such viewers (e.g., the number of supporters), thereby enabling appropriate evaluation of distributors based on the number of viewers with certain viewing behavior. In this way, the server 10 supports appropriate evaluation of video distributors.

[0089] The processes and procedures described herein, other than those explicitly described, may be implemented by software, hardware, or any combination thereof. For example, the processes and procedures described herein may be implemented by implementing logic corresponding to the processes and procedures in media such as integrated circuits, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and magnetic disks. The processes and procedures described herein may also be implemented as computer programs corresponding to the processes and procedures and executed by various computers.

[0090] Although processes and procedures described herein are described as being performed by a single device, software, component, or module, such processes or procedures may be performed by multiple devices, software, components, and / or modules. Also, the software and hardware elements described herein may be implemented by combining them into fewer components or breaking them down into more components.

[0091] In this specification, even if a component of the invention is described as either singular or plural, or is described without limitation as either singular or plural, the component may be either singular or plural unless the context requires otherwise. [Explanation of symbols]

[0092] 10 Video distribution server 11. Computer Processor 15 Storage 20. Communication Networks 30 User terminals 41 Information storage management department 43 Basic function control section 45 Video distribution control section 47 User Evaluation Department 60 Top screen 70 Streaming Screen 80 viewing screen 100 Item selection screen 200, 200A Support Team Details Screen

Claims

1. 1. A system for distributing video, comprising one or more computer processors, comprising: The one or more computer processors, in response to execution of the readable instructions: A process of distributing videos provided by each of a plurality of distributors to a plurality of viewers; A process of determining, for each of the plurality of distributors, viewers who satisfy a predetermined condition regarding viewing behavior of videos provided by each of the plurality of distributors; and executing a process of executing a predetermined process for evaluating each of the plurality of distributors based at least on the number of viewers who satisfy the predetermined condition for each of the plurality of distributors. system.

2. The predetermined processing includes a processing of calculating predetermined points for setting a ranking of the distributor. The system of claim 1.

3. the determining step includes determining viewers who satisfy the predetermined condition during a predetermined time period corresponding to a particular event; The predetermined points are used to set a ranking of the broadcaster in the specific event. The system of claim 2.

4. The predetermined conditions include conditions related to the amount of video viewing.

4. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The predetermined condition includes a condition regarding the amount of input information input while watching a video.

5. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. the distribution process includes, during distribution of the video, presenting a distribution screen to the distributor and a viewing screen to the viewer; The distribution screen and / or the viewing screen are configured to display information about viewers who satisfy the predetermined conditions of the corresponding distributor.

6. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. the distribution process includes, during distribution of the video, presenting a distribution screen to the distributor and a viewing screen to the viewer; the distribution screen and / or the viewing screen is configured to display a predetermined message in response to each of the plurality of viewers satisfying the predetermined condition; 7. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The one or more computer processors further execute a process of presenting, to a specific viewer, information regarding the specific viewer's satisfaction of the predetermined condition.

8. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. 1. A method for distributing video, executed by one or more computers, comprising: A step of distributing videos provided by each of a plurality of distributors to a plurality of viewers; determining, for each of the plurality of distributors, viewers who satisfy a predetermined condition regarding viewing behavior of videos provided by each of the plurality of distributors; and executing a predetermined process to evaluate each of the plurality of distributors based at least on the number of viewers who satisfy the predetermined condition for each of the plurality of distributors. method.

10. A program for distributing videos, In response to execution on one or more computers, the one or more computers: A process of distributing videos provided by each of a plurality of distributors to a plurality of viewers; A process of determining, for each of the plurality of distributors, viewers who satisfy a predetermined condition regarding viewing behavior of videos provided by each of the plurality of distributors; and executing a predetermined process for evaluating each of the plurality of distributors based at least on the number of viewers who satisfy the predetermined condition for each of the plurality of distributors. program.

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